What role does insulin play in acne development?

Insulin plays a significant role in the development and exacerbation of acne due to its effect on sebum production. When insulin levels rise, often as a result of high glycemic diets or insulin resistance, it stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This increase in sebum can lead to clogged pores, providing an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive, thereby exacerbating acne.

Furthermore, elevated insulin can enhance the effects of androgens, hormones that also encourage sebaceous gland activity. This dual action—boosting both sebum production and androgen effects—contributes significantly to the formation of acne lesions.

In contrast, the other options suggest alternative roles for insulin that are not supported by the current understanding of acne pathology. Insulin does not reduce sebum production, nor is it neutral in its effect on acne severity; its role is clearly linked to increasing the factors that contribute to acne development rather than healing existing lesions.